1827 Pattern Wilkinson British Rifle Regiment Officer's Sword, sold

In good condition, a Victorian (1869) British rifle regiment officer's sword by Wilkinson, original owner's initials.

Serial number 16497 for 1869, this sword's blade was period sharpened, we presume by Wilkinson Sword, so it may well have been used in the so called "Second Afghan War" (1878). The blade has been professionally sharpened the entire length of the cutting edge, and then either immediately after or at a later date, the blade has been replated. We know the sharpening and replating is period because of the high standard. For example, most post-Victorian replated blades, the etching is rendered very feint and not very sharp. The etching on this blade is still sharp and strong. The blade was sharpened after it had been sold originally because the sharpening has run across some of the etching including the last initial of the original owner's name (initials), which are "ECK".

The 32 inch blade is in very good shape and condition generally, one small former rust patch, and firm in the hilt. The steel hilt is on very good order, though some minor pitting to the front and rusting inside (we have treated this). The grip is in very good order, the twisted grip wire bindings mostly very good, a couple of smaller strands slightly astray. The steel scabbard is very sound, some rust pitting patches here and there. The sword sheathes and draws very well.

The Wilkinson sales ledger still exists and you can have it searched and the original sales details (normally including owner's name) provided for only £10; details provided to buyer if of interest.

So this is a very good sword at a very good price. Further / full sized images upon request. Please quote item reference number D44 (740)